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Yen Bai In 5 Days: Northern Vietnam Itinerary Review By Diop Family

Wednesday, January 08, 2025 Experiences of customers Noah

Review of the 5-day travel itinerary to Yen Bai by the Diop Family

The 5-day journey to Yen Bai is one of the most anticipated adventures in Northern Vietnam. Known for its stunning natural landscapes, particularly the Mu Cang Chai terraced rice terraces in Yen Bai, you will have the opportunity to explore these masterpieces created by the skilled hands of local farmers. These rice terraces take artistic forms like rice trays or horseshoes. Next, head to Sapa, with its majestic mountains shrouded in clouds. To find out what you can do in 5 days in Yen Bai, review the Diop family’s itinerary below!

I. Overview of the Yen Bai itinerary 5 days
II. Detailed 5-day itinerary in Yen Bai
III. Weather in Yen Bai 5 days - Forecast for a trip

I. Overview of the Yen Bai itinerary 5 days

We had the chance to discover the splendor of Yen Bai with the Vietnam travel agency Autour Asia during a 5-day trip to Northern Vietnam.

Starting from Hanoi, we drove to Yen Bai. During the 5 days in Yen Bai, we conquered Khau Pha Pass to admire the sublime Mu Cang Chai rice terraces during the ripe rice season. Then, we continued to Sapa, with an ascent of Mount Fansipan. To conclude our 5-day itinerary in Yen Bai, we explored historical sites in Dien Bien as well as the lush valleys of Moc Chau and Mai Chau. A journey that left us with many unforgettable memories!

5-day travel itinerary in Yen Bai:
Day 1: Hanoi - Khau Pha - Mu Cang Chai
Day 2: Mu Cang Chai - Sapa - Fansipan
Day 3: Sapa - Rong May Glass Bridge - Lai Chau - Dien Bien
Day 4: Dien Bien - Moc Chau - Bach Long Glass Bridge
Day 5: Moc Chau - Mai Chau - Hanoi

II. Detailed 5-day itinerary in Yen Bai

1. Day 1: Hanoi - Khau Pha - Mu Cang Chai

The first day of our 5-day itinerary in Yen Bai began early in the morning. Our guide and driver greeted us at our hotel in Hanoi's Old Quarter, and we set off towards Yen Bai in the morning, leaving the city behind to embrace the stunning natural landscapes.

Tu Le Valley - A must-see in Yen Bai in 5 days

Our first stop was at Thanh Son, where rolling hills of lush tea plantations stretched as far as the eye could see, offering a soothing sight. We then had lunch in Nghia Lo before crossing the vast fields of Muong Lo. Our guide shared captivating stories about Tu Le Valley, known for its sticky rice and unique ethnic traditions.

The highlight of the day was the climb up Khau Pha Pass, where we were rewarded with a breathtaking view of the valleys and ethnic villages in Yen Bai. Afterward, a short motorbike ride led us to the famous Mu Cang Chai rice terraces, an awe-inspiring scene that perfectly concluded our first day of the 5-day trip in Yen Bai.

2. Day 2: Mu Cang Chai - Sapa - Fansipan

On the second day of our 5-day itinerary in Yen Bai, we left the hotel in Mu Cang Chai. After a delicious breakfast at a local restaurant, we headed towards Sapa. Along the way, we passed through the picturesque landscapes of Than Uyen, Tan Uyen, and Tam Duong, where mountains and rivers harmoniously blended, creating breathtaking panoramas. The highlight of the morning was undoubtedly crossing the O Quy Ho Pass.

Mu Cang Chai rice terraces in golden season

Arriving in Sapa around lunchtime, we enjoyed a meal and were ready for one of the most anticipated moments of the trip: the ascent of Mount Fansipan. Thanks to the cable car, we were able to admire the grand landscape as we ascended into the clouds.

We explored the Heaven Gate and the pagoda in Fansipan Peak, in a uniquely spiritual atmosphere. We climbed to see the bronze statue of Buddha, gazing out towards the vast sky. After ascending the stone steps, we reached the summit of Fansipan, the roof of Indochina. Unfortunately, the clouds were too thick that day, preventing us from enjoying the panoramic view. Nevertheless, the sites visited during this ascent remain unforgettable memories in this 5-day itinerary in Yen Bai.

Fansipan in Sapa

3. Day 3: Sapa - Rong May - Lai Chau - Dien Bien

On day 3, our guide took us to the Rong May Glass Bridge, perched high in the O Quy Ho pass in Lai Chau. We made a stop at the city monument and then explored famous sites like the sources of the Black River and the Black Thai ethnic village, with their stilt houses.

In the afternoon, we continued our journey to Dien Bien Phu, where we visited iconic historical sites: the Dien Bien Phu Victory Monument, the Dien Bien Phu Trenches, and the Muong Thanh Bridge. All these sites stand as witnesses to Vietnam’s history.

We finished the day with a walk around A1 Hill, where the remnants of past battles are still palpable. End of day 3 of the 5-day itinerary in Yen Bai.

Dien Bien Phu Trenches

4. Day 4: Dien Bien - Moc Chau

On day 4, we headed towards Moc Chau. Passing through the Son La Town, we admired its emblematic monument and the Co Noi Crossroads memorial site.

In Moc Chau, we visited the Dai Yem Waterfall, which tells the story of a girl saving a boy from the turbulent waters. Then, we explored a charming garden in the Muong Sang Valley, filled with typical regional flowers. Afterward, we spent some time cycling together around the valley, admiring the beautiful local villages. We ended the day in Moc Chau, our last night in the Yen Bai 5-day itinerary.

Dai Yem Waterfall in Moc Chau

5. Day 5: Moc Chau - Mai Chau - Hanoi

On the final day of our Yen Bai itinerary 5 days, we woke up early to visit the Moc Chau tea valley, home to rows of green tea plants.

We then explored the Na Ka Valley, known for its plum trees. Although it wasn't the blooming season, the place still exuded raw beauty.

At noon, we headed to Mai Chau for lunch. Afterward, we had the chance to explore the valley by electric car, visit the stilt houses of the Thai ethnic group, and learn about their traditional brocade weaving craft.

Afterward, we returned to Hanoi in the evening. End of our Yen Bai 5-day trip.

Na Ka Valley

III. Weather in Yen Bai 5 days - Forecast for a trip

In October, we were lucky to witness breathtaking landscapes with pleasant weather in Yen Bai during our 5 days. The journey through Yen Bai - Sapa - Lai Chau - Dien Bien - Moc Chau was marked by mild sunshine and no excessive heat. It was the golden season in Mu Cang Chai and the blooming flower season in Moc Chau, allowing us to admire scenes as beautiful as those seen in photos before.

I hope the shared insights on the Yen Bai itinerary 5 days by the Diop family will inspire other travelers to embark on a true adventure in Vietnam. Don’t forget to contact Autour Asia soon to plan your next Southeast Asia trip!

You can refer to:

> Tram Tau hot spring

> Yen Bai travel guide

> North Vietnam tours

> 12 days in Northern Vietnam

5/5 - (1002 Vote)

Ujey

5.0 Excellent

Are there any culinary specialties to try in Yen Bai?

Yes, Yen Bai offers several unique culinary specialties worth trying.

One of the most famous dishes is com lam, which is sticky rice cooked in bamboo tubes, giving it a distinct aroma and flavor.

Another specialty is trau gac bep, dried buffalo meat, often enjoyed as a snack or with a cold beer.

Yen Bai is also known for its fresh fish dishes, prepared with fish caught from local rivers. These traditional dishes reflect the rich culinary heritage of the region and are a must-try for visitors seeking an authentic taste of northern Vietnam.

Scofield

5.0 Excellent

When is the best time to visit Mu Cang Chai Yen Bai?

The best time to visit Mu Cang Chai Yen Bai is from September to early October.

During this period, the rice terraces are at their most vibrant, turning golden as they ripen, creating breathtaking landscapes ideal for photography and exploration.

This time also coincides with the harvest season, offering visitors a chance to witness local farmers at work, adding a cultural dimension to the natural beauty.

The weather during these months is pleasant, with cooler temperatures and less rainfall, making it perfect for trekking and outdoor activities in the stunning mountainous terrain of Mu Cang Chai.

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